Every
fundraiser has the potential to make a real difference. Sometimes it
just takes a few adjustments to help your story reach the people it's
meant to reach. Whether you're raising funds for a personal need,
ministry, or project, these tips can help you build trust, strengthen
your message, and encourage generosity.
Set a Realistic Fundraising Goal
Set
a fundraising goal that feels realistic for your timeline, audience,
and needs. A clear, attainable target can motivate givers by showing
them their support will help you reach something meaningful and
achievable. For help with deciding on a goal, see Setting Your Fundraiser Goal.
Break Down How Your Funds Will Be Used
More
than simply stating your goal amount, explain how the funds will be
used. Specifics help build trust and give givers confidence in your
fundraiser. For example:
- $3,000 for medical bills
- $2,500 for travel expenses
- $4,500 for rent and utilities
When people understand where their support is going, they’re more likely to feel connected to your need and motivated to help.
Create the Perfect Custom Link
Pick
a simple, easy-to-remember link. This is the web address or link people
will click to visit your fundraiser page. A clear link makes your
fundraiser easier to share and helps supporters find it quickly. See Creating and Managing Your Custom Fundraiser Link for more.
Craft a Clear, Personal Story
People don’t just give to causes—they give to people. The most important aspect of your fundraiser is the reason behind it.
Take a moment to introduce yourself and explain what inspired your
fundraiser. Share your heart and the story behind your cause. The more
personal and honest you are, the more others will feel connected to you
and your cause. You don’t need perfect wording or polished language.
What matters most is honesty, clarity, and sincerity.
Don’t assume people know what you’re hoping they’ll do. Be clear and direct. You might include language like:
- “If you’re able, please consider giving.”
- “Sharing this fundraiser would mean so much to us.”
- “Every gift and every share helps.”
Use Strong Visuals
Add
photos or a video to make your fundraiser feel truly personal,
engaging, and dynamic. Choose images that reflect your story and catch
the eye. If you're adding a video, keep it brief, creative, and uniquely
you—the best way to connect with potential supporters and givers. See Adding Images and Videos to Your Fundraiser for instructions.
Post Regular Updates
If
circumstances change, timelines shift, or new needs arise, share
updates openly. Transparency builds trust and helps givers feel like
they're part of the journey—not just a donation to a fundraiser. See Posting a Fundraiser Update for more.
Show Appreciation
Always thank your givers. Whether it's a quick reply to a comment,
a shoutout in a fundraiser update, or a short thank-you video, showing
appreciation strengthens your connection with supporters and can inspire
continued generosity. You can also set up a custom thank-you message to automatically send whenever someone donates.
Get the Word Out
Share
your fundraiser consistently, not just once. Post on social media, send
it by email, and share it within community groups to reach a wider
audience. Use Facebook groups, church bulletins, or local newsletters to
spread the word. And don't be afraid to ask close friends or family to
share your fundraiser within their own networks—personal shares build
trust and often lead to stronger support. See Sharing Your Fundraiser for guidance.
Build Early Momentum
Fundraisers
that gain support early often continue to grow. Consider reaching out
to close friends and family first before sharing your fundraiser more
widely.
Early donations and encouraging comments can:
- Show others that your fundraiser is supported
- Build credibility
- Encourage additional giving
A strong start can create positive momentum.
Create a Hashtag
Pick a short, memorable hashtag like #TeamForTina or #SupportSarah.
Use it every time you post about your fundraiser on social media—it
makes your updates easier to find and helps build a sense of community.